Baseload power plants are not necessary to maintain supply in an energy system dominated by wind and solar power, and only have a place in future systems if they help cut costs, say researchers in Ger...

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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Proposes Carbon Tax to Combat Climate Change A new proposal by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change through a revenue-neutral carbon tax. The tax rate is proposed at $55 per ton of CO2 equivalent. The plan's supporters argue that it would provide a significant incentive for the transition to cleaner energy sources, leading to improved air quality and reduced emissions. However, some lawmakers and experts have expressed concerns about the proposal, citing its potential impact on the state's economy and energy grid reliability. One of the main economic concerns is that the carbon tax could lead to higher costs for consumers, businesses, and industries, potentially harming the state's economy. Energy grid reliability is also a major concern, with some arguing that the policy may not be enough to address the state's looming issues related to baseload power generation. State Rep. Mike Regola has warned that Pennsylvania will lose 40,000 megawatts of reliable power from the PJM grid over the next few years due to policy reforms like those recommended by Governor Shapiro. The loss is expected to be particularly significant in terms of generating baseload power, which is crucial for maintaining energy grid stability. Governor Shapiro's allies and opponents have both expressed concerns about the proposal, with some arguing that it would lead to higher costs and disrupt the state's economy. However, others see the carbon tax as a necessary step towards reducing emissions and addressing climate change. The bill has not yet passed through the state legislature, and it is unclear when a vote will be scheduled. As the debate over the proposal continues, it remains to be seen how Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro's carbon tax plan will ultimately shape the state's energy policy and address its climate challenges.

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Key Legislation Aims to Boost Pennsylvania's Electric Generation Capacity State Senator Gene Yaw has announced plans to introduce legislation that would help boost Pennsylvania's electric generation capacity, addressing the shortfall faced by PJM, the organization managing the mid-Atlantic power grid. According to Yaw, since 2019, there have been no new investments in baseload electric generation

Pennsylvania Faces Energy Crisis as Generation Resources dwindle A critical shortage in power generation resources is emerging, which the competitive power supply market has been unable to address. Over the next decade, PJM Interconnection predicts that up to 40,000 megawatts of dispatchable baseload generation will retire without suitable replacement resources being secured. Concurrently, a rise of 62,000 MW in new loads is anticipated, largely driven by the operation of energy-intensive data centers and artificial intelligence as well as the electrification of transportation and commercial heating/cooling sectors. This imminent energy crisis poses significant challenges to maintaining a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power. The consequences could be severe, with potential users facing record-high electric bills and even disrupted access to electricity through non-functional light switches. Rep. Perry Stambaugh proposes a moderate approach that would provide electric distribution companies with the flexibility to collaborate alongside the existing competitive power supply market to ensure the Commonwealth's energy future. By enabling these companies to invest in generation if they choose, he aims to support their commitment to meeting consumers' needs for electricity. Electric distribution companies play a vital role in ensuring households and businesses have access to power. The proposed approach would allow them to take proactive steps in securing the state's energy future by investing in generation resources.